Dahlia 'David Howard'

dahlia

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to October
• Flower colour: soft burnt-orange
• Other features: excellent cut-flowers
• Hardiness: half hardy
  
  This miniature, decorative-type dahlia will happily grow at the front of a sheltered border or in a large patio pot. Flourishing in fertile, humus-rich soil, the fully double, soft burnt-orange flowers and dramatic, dark purple-bronze leaves are perfect for an exotic-type border or hot planting scheme.
  
  
• Garden care: Provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. Once the first frosts have blackened the foliage carefully lift and clean the tubers and allow them to dry naturally indoors. Place the dry tubers in a shallow tray, just covered with slightly moist potting compost, sand or vermiculite. Store in a frost-free place, checking frequently over the winter months.